MP condemns looting in London and around the country

Hemel Hempstead MP Mike Penning has condemned the rioting and looting in London and elsewhere.

Mike said:
“I totally condemn the rioting and looting that has taken place these last three nights in London and elsewhere. The total disrespect for peoples’ lives, homes and livelihoods is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

“I am appalled and shocked at the behaviour and in particular the ages of some of the young people taking part. I back calls for parents to take responsibility for the actions of their children and ensure they are off the streets at a sensible time tonight.

“I have the utmost praise for our emergency services, the police and fire service in particular, who have faced an incredibly difficult task with situations taking place simultaneously in different parts of the capital. Hundreds of officers have had their leave cancelled at short notice and been working round the clock facing situations of extreme danger. As an ex-firefighter I am absolutely disgusted at the attacks on the fire personnel who are already putting themselves at great risk trying to save lives and property.

“As politicians we need to ensure that the police are able to do the job required of them. It is, of course, far too soon to make sound judgements on the full causes of the incidents of the past few days but the time has certainly come where order must now be fully restored in London. With the Olympics less than a year away the eyes of the world are upon us and I fully support tough action to bring these incidents to a swift conclusion and put the rights of the law abiding majority first.”